Project Cost Manager 

Overview

A design-driven real estate development firm is seeking a Project Cost Manager to support a portfolio of high-end residential, hospitality, and mixed-use projects across Los Angeles.

This is an owner-side role focused heavily on construction-phase cost management, with responsibility for project financial oversight, cost control, and reporting from preconstruction through closeout.

Key Responsibilities

• Review and approve contractor pay applications/invoices
• Evaluate and manage change orders, including scope, pricing, and validity
• Maintain and track project budgets throughout construction
• Develop and manage cash flow forecasts and cost reports
• Monitor overall project financial performance and identify cost risks
• Support contractor buyout, bid analysis, and procurement processes
• Assist with budget development and cost planning during preconstruction
• Partner with development, design, and construction teams to ensure financial alignment

Requirements

• 5–15+ years of experience in construction cost management, project cost controls, or estimating
• Strong experience managing project financials during construction, including:
  • Pay application/invoice review
  • Change order review and negotiation
  • Cost tracking and reporting
  • Cash flow forecasting
• Experience supporting or leading budget development and estimating efforts
• Background in ground-up construction projects
• Strong understanding of construction contracts and cost structures
• Advanced Excel skills for cost tracking and financial analysis

Preferred Background

• Experience with:
  • Owner’s rep or developer-side teams
  • Cost consultancies (Cumming, Turner & Townsend, etc.)
• Exposure to residential, hospitality, or commercial development
• Ability to operate in a detail-driven, fast-paced environment